Vol 6
In this Issue WESTERN VISAYAS
BSP Venture Camp: Fr. Fortunato Abiera, Council Chairman, Boy Scouts of the Philippines Antique Chapter emphasizes that young people are important in nation building, thus, they should have quality of character, willing to help others and living the value they learned from scouting in their homes and community during the opening of the 15th Provincial Senior Scout Venture held at Gov. Julian Fullon Pacificador National School,
September 12 - 18, 2016
Published by: PIA 6, 7 & 8
Issue 37
Gen. ‘Bato’ to cops: Stay safe, alive PIA 8 TACLOBAN CITY, Leyte, Sept. 14 (PIA) – Police Chief Ronald dela Rosa told the policemen of Region-08 to stay safe and alive as they perform their duties, particularly in the war against illegal drugs. General “Bato”, the PNP Chief’s moniker, said this during the 115th Police Service Anniversary at Camp Ruperto Kangleon, Palo, Leyte, Sept. 14 where he was guest of honor and speaker. He reminded his men of the six-month deadline President Rodrigo Duterte gave them to end the proliferation of the illegal drugs in the country. According to him, it has just been two months in the campaign, but the result is quiet fulfilling. “I came here rather late for the PNP Anniversary which was in August yet, but I was insistent to hold the formal observance because I wanted to join you here, because I want to assure you in person that the Duterte administration will provide you, not only your needed tools, but also your full privileges and benefits for your families to live a decent if not comfortable lives”, General “Bato” said. He added that it is sad to lose a police in operation, just like the one killed in Marabut in August by a suspected drug lord. “Galit ako talaga, pag may napapatay na pulis dahil lang sa
droga, pero magkamatayan na, tatapusin natin ang gyera sa droga”, he added. J u s t l i k e P r e s. D u t e r t e , th e P N P C h i e f mentioned that there was an early report of a P1-million bounty for his head, but neither he is afraid, in fact he is also willing to die, if it means cleansing the country of illegal drugs, as it is destroying family relations, raping even children and lolas. In the Press Conference that followed, he expressed joy at the report that crime rate, since July has dipped by 49%, which he attributed to the declining supply of shabu. “The Espinosas used to supply about 30 to 50 kilograms of Shabu in the region per month, but now, since they had been under the control of the police, the drug trade had come in sachets and trickles”, the PNP top officer informed. Asked on what he can do about the presence of private armed groups (PAGs) in Samar, Gen. Bato ordered the PNP provincial director and regional director to eliminate the PAGs, at all costs. “I don’t care whether these PAGs are coddled by top political leaders of Samar, puntahan niyo, kausapin niyo yong mga leader na yan, tapos na ang election, bakit may patayan pa? Puntahan niyo!”, the 1986 PMA graduate left the marching order. (PIA-08)
More on Region 6, pages 2-3. Also CLICK Here…
Gov’t offers 10-year RTBs at 3.5% interest Jaime S. Cabag, Jr.
CENTRAL VISAYAS
Cebu media interviewing DOH -7 Regional Director Dr. Jaime S. Bernadas after the Kapihan sa PIA held September 14 at DOH-7 Tugas Conference Room, Osmeña Blvd., Cebu
More on Region 7, pages 4-5. Also CLICK Here…
EASTERN VISAYAS
PNP Chief Director General Ronald dela Rosa answer questions from the media during the press conference held earlier today at PNP Regional Office 8, Camp Ruperto Kangleon, Palo, Leyte. To his left is PNP-8 Director Elmer Beltejar, and to his right is Police Director Archie Francisco Gamboa, Directorate for Comptrollership. Also in attendance are PNP Provincial Directors of Samar and Leyte. PDG dela Rosa was in Leyte as Guest of Honor and Speaker of the 115th
More on Region 8, pages 6-7. Also CLICK Here...
ILOILO CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA6) – The Bureau of the Treasury (BTr) has unveiled an offer for Retail Treasury Bonds (RTB), the first under the Duterte administration, to promote domestic savings and generate funds to meet the requirements of government spending for infrastructure and social services. The auction volume for the 10-year bonds, originally set at P30 billion, has been scaled up to P65 billion. The bonds are available for as low as P5, 000, low-risk and carry an interest rate of 3.5 percent quarterly. The bonds, so far the 18th tranche offered by the treasury bureau, were launched here Sept. 9 by Deputy Treasurer Erwin D. Sta. Ana together with other officials of the national treasury, Development Bank of the Philippines and other government and private financial institutions which shall serve as selling agents. Sta. Ana said the proceeds of this particular issuance are geared toward President Rodrigo Duterte’s vision of ramping up infrastructure and social services that have been already factored in the General Appropriations Act. In order to make the present bonds affordable, The RTBs have the backing of the credit of the Republic of the Philippines and are therefore a safe investment for the public, said Sta. Ana. He added that they hope to raise a sizable volume that would actually complete funding requirements for government programs. He pointed out that the President’s unprecedented political capital in terms of trust rating was seen by Sta. Ana as a driver for this particular RTB transaction. “The reach of the President in terms of audience is up to the margins of society, so we are looking at this to actually boost demand from individuals themselves so that they can contribute to
the programs of President Duterte,” he said. The issue date for the RTBs is September 20, 2016 The interest rate of 3.5 per cent will be quarterly, subject to 20 present final withholding tax except for tax-exempt institutions. The bonds are negotiable and transferrable. Investors may purchase the RTBs from any of the 15 Selling Agents subject to the documentary and minimum deposit requirements of each selling agent. The transaction background, terms and conditions of the offer and offering processing were presented during the investors’ briefing held at Richmonde Hotel at the Iloilo Business Park here. (JSC/PIA6)
Investors' Briefing on Retail Treasury Bonds spearheaded by the Bureau of the Treasury on Sept. 9 at Richmonde Hotel, Iloilo City. (PIA6)
DOE-Visayas warns against use of LPG-refilled canisters Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, Sept. 14 (PIA) – Possible explosions are highly likely to occur causing possible loss of lives and damage to properties following fire accidents due to the use of liquefied petroleum gas (LPG) refilled canisters, warned the Department of Energy (DOE) Visayas. DOE-Visayas Director Antonio Labios emphasized safety concerns over cheap costs of refilling the LPG canister amid the proliferation of illegal or backyard refilling of LPG or butane canisters in Cebu. “Refilling butane canisters only costs from P8.50 to P12 compared to buying the LPG priced at over P200 for 2.5 kilograms to P600 for 11 kilograms,” said Labios adding that the cheap price comes at a cost. According to Labios, the proliferation of LPG-refilled canisters is abundant in Mindanao and Cebu and is now starting to increase in Negros Oriental and Leyte.
DOE-Visayas has noted three related explosions due to the use of LPG-refilled butane canisters in Cebu although no fatality has been recorded. Russ Mark Gamallo, legal officer of the DOE-Visayas, said pursuing those behind the backyard refilling of LPG canisters can be difficult as this is usually done inside the residence. Gamallo said the public can also help monitor such illegal activities in their neighborhood so this can be immediately acted upon. Meanwhile, Labios lauded the cities of Mandaue, Lapulapu and Danao for passing a local ordinance against the use of LPG-refilled canisters giving teeth to the national law. Just last week, the Cebu province passed an ordinance titled “Anti-LPG Refilled Butane in Canister Ordinance” with corresponding penalties for those who violate the local law. (rmn/ fcr/PIA7)
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WESTERN VISAYAS
NOC eyes Iloilo as ASEAN meeting site By Leonard T. Pineda I ILOILO CITY, Sept. 15 (PIA6) --- A team from the National Organizing Council (NOC) for the 2017 Association of Southeast Asian Nations (ASEAN) is set to conduct ocular visits in Iloilo City on September 26 to 28.
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n a media release, Mayor Jed Patrick Mabilog said that he was informed through a letter from NOC Director General for Operations Marciano A. Paynor Jr. that the ASEAN 2017 NOC has chosen Iloilo City as one of the sites for ASEAN meetings. “We encourage everyone to support Iloilo City’s preparations to host the 2017 ASEAN meetings. This good news manifests our growing
reputation as ideal convention destination,” he said. The city already experienced successful global hosting that attracted thousands of delegates and visitors of several meetings of Asia Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) in 2015. Mabilog said the ocular visits will help determine the possible engagement sites and specific arrangements for the ASEAN meetings such as airport facilities, hotel
accommodation, conference venues and tourism destinations. The meetings that will be convened by various lead government agencies will be attended by high-level delegates such as ministers and senior officials. ASEAN is composed of 10 memb er -c ountr ies inc lu d ing Brunei Darussalam, Cambodia, Indonesia, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Philippines, Singapore, Thailand and Vietnam. (LTP/PIA-Iloilo)
Guimaras PNP gears up for tourism role Elsa S. Subong ILOILO CITY, Sept. 12 (PIA6 ) — The Philippine National Police in Guimaras underwent several trainings to make them aware of their role in tourism promotion of the province.
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he sessions were initiated and facilitated by the Department of Tourism through its provincial tourism office in two phases: Tourism Awareness and Tourist Safety and Security. Dubbed as Tourism Oriented Police for Community Order and Protection, the seminar aimed to promote a secured environment in tourist destinations in Guimaras, as well as ensuring the protection and safety of both foreign and domestic tourists. According to the Provincial Tourism Office, the participants were oriented on their role and mission, tourism trends, effective customer service, principles of tourist safety
and protection, child safety and protection and laws covering them, including tourist security protocol. Likewise, they were also oriented on basic principles of tourist safety, report writing and media relations, as well as first aid and basic life support, crisis incident management. The police participants also had technical tour and practical exercises in natural disasters. Liberty Ferrer, OIC Tourism Officer, said that the Tourism Act of 2009 provides for the establishment of a Tourism Security Force to assist in maintaining peace and order with
the areas of high tourism traffic. “The Tourist Police Units are expected to provide a 24-hour protection to all tourists visiting Guimaras, and increase police visibility during evenings,” Ferrer said. “These Tourist Police Units are also means of strengthening the relationship between the DOT and the PNP in order to give a peaceful and secure environment to all travelers visiting every tourism destination,” she added. Ferrer said she the participation of all municipal stations in the province means safety and protection of all tourists visiting the province. (JSC/ESS/PIA6 Iloilo)
Skills training seminars target OSYs, drug surrenderees Pilar S. Mabaquiao SAN JOSE, Antique, Sept. 15 (PIA6) - - Provincial Director Jose Gerry Hallares of Technical Education Skills Development Authority (TESDA) said that the Out of School Youths and drug surrenderees are among the priority target of their skills training program.
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Rest assured that we are giving priority OSYs identified under Abot Alam Program and drug surrenderees referred for rehabilitation by the Philippine National Police,” said Hallares during the stakeholder’s meeting of Abot Alam program at DILG Office on Wednesday. TESDA urged barangay officials to take a serious look at the Barangay Skills Mapping program they have conducted and submit the form after a thorough assessment of the training needs of their constituents. “It will be of great help to the people in the barangays to learn new skills/qualifications and earn certification that they could use in seeking for jobs here and abroad or in starting up their own business, “ he said.
Perla Loriega, Division Coordinator of Abot Alam said that as of April they have listed 13,997 OSYs (15-30 years old) and 3,300 of them signified the need to undergo skills training under entrepreneurship and 3,060 opted to seek for employment, the remaining 7,657 preferred to pursue education. The list was already given to TESDA for appraisal if whoever will be qualified and interested for the skills training either in accredited training center or community based. Likewise, Donnabelle Baldonado of DOLE Antique said that the Department of Labor and Employment could support the livelihood projects of OSYs as long as they are organized and meet the requirements of the
program. Hallares encouraged the OSYs to visit their office or the technical vocational schools accredited by TESDA to inquire about the programs/courses offered so they could avail of the scholarship grants. The TESDA accredited schools are Advance Central College, Goodhands Development Training Center, Semirara Training Center, St. Anthony’s College, Wright Technological College of Antique and Provincial TESDA Training Center. In partnership with the provincial government, TESDA is planning to establish a training center in the northern Antique to cater to the needs of the trainees in the north. (JCM/psm/PIA6Antique)
WESTERN VISAYAS
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SP cites young Aklanon world champs Venus G. Villanueva KALIBO, Aklan, 15 Sept. 15 (PIA6) -- Two young Aklanons who excelled in the performing arts were recently cited by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan (SP) here through resolutions of commendation.
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n separate resolutions, the Aklan SP congratulated and commended Melky Barrera Arboleda of Estancia, Kalibo, Aklan for winning gold, silver and bronze medals in the recently concluded 20th Annual World Championships of Performing Arts (WCOPA) held in Long Beach, California, U.S.A. on July 8-17, 2016; and Michelle Penaroyo Luna of Poblacion, Batan, Aklan, for winning gold in the same contest. Arboleda won a gold medal in Opera Category; silver medal in Broadway Category and bronze in Rock Category.
Luna, on the other hand, won a gold medal for herself in the Opera Category. Luna is a graduate of Bachelor of Music major in Music Education and currently studying Bachelor of Music major in Voice in the University of San Agustin in Iloilo City. The Aklan SP, in the resolutions, said the achievements of the two young Aklanons brought honor and pride not only to their respective families but to the entire Aklanons and Filipinos as a whole. The resolutions from the SP were
handed to Arboleda and Luna after the recent Monday flag-raising ceremony in front of the Provincial Capitol Building and witnessed by department heads and employees of the provincial government and national government agencies holding office at the Capitol compound, by members of the Aklan SP. The resolution was sponsored by SP Member Jay Tejada and co-sponsored by all SP members. This year’s WCOPA was participated in by 61 countries. (JCM/VGV PIA6 Aklan)
Spearhead troopers beef up PNP efforts Alex A. Lumaque ROXAS CITY, Capiz, Sept. 14 (PIA6) – Spearhead troopers of the 3rd Infantry Division (3ID) were deployed in coordination with their Philippine National Police (PNP) counterparts all over Western and Central Visayas areas in connection with the Proclamation No. 55 of President Rodrigo R. Duterte declaring a state of lawless violence in the country.
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he 3ID is tasked to give support to intensified checkpoint operations and visibility patrols in critical road networks, vital installations, transport or bus terminals, seaports and airports aside from conduct of inspections or searches to suspected terrorists in coordination with policemen and other law enforcement agencies. “With the increasing military presence in some identified places, I instructed all field commanders to conduct pre-deployment briefings to troops,” said 3ID commander Maj.
Gen. Harold N. Cabreros, stressing that the rank and file and the organization itself have been more professional in handling and dealing crisis situations. Troops Information and Education (TI&E) will also be given to the soldiers particularly the guidelines on how troopers are expected to perform specific tasks related to the proclamation, including conduct of checkpoints, foot or mobile patrols and enforcement of curfews if deemed necessary. Cabreros assured that constitutional
rights of every individual shall at all times be respected and given due regard by the spearhead troops. Military personnel found violating any of the foregoing constitutional rights shall be administratively and criminally liable. The 3ID official clarified that Western and Central Visayas are generally peaceful. However, the military support to PNP efforts is aimed to prevent violence like the Davao blast, from spreading and escalating to other places. (JCM/AAL/PIA6 Capiz)
DOLE funds P2.3M for TUPAD program Carlson B. Alelis BACOLOD CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA6) – Thirteen barangays here received a total of P2.3 million for the funding of the emergency work program by the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE) – Negros Island Region (NIR).
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round 472 residents will benefit from DOLE’s Tulong Pangkabuhayan sa mga Disadvantaged Workers (Tupad) program, wherein beneficiaries will help in the de-clogging of drainages and canals in their respective barangays for 15 days. Each beneficiary will be paid P298.50 per day, or a total of P4,477.50, according to Ma. Victoria Diwata Borines, senior labor employment officer. Borines said that there were originally five proponent barangays - 6, 9, 39, Mandalagan, and Mansilingan - but they added
eight more. The five clusters are as follows: Cluster 1: Barangays 5 and 6 - with 30 beneficiaries; Cluster 2: Barangays 9, 23, Sum-ag and Cabug- with 98 beneficiaries; Cluster 3: Barangays 39, Pahanocoy, and Banago - with 105 beneficiaries; Barangays Mandalagan and Bata - with 120 beneficiaries; and Barangays Mansilingan and Granada - with 119 beneficiaries. The beneficiaries will also receive personal protective equipment, a release from the City Information Office said.
Likewise, they will also be enrolled in a social protection program for a year, the Group Personal Accident Insurance, with the Government Service Insurance System (GSIS), for P50 per person. The checks were distributed by Borine, Director lawyer Johnson Cañete of DOLE – NIR and Bacolod Mayor Evelio Leonardia at the New Government Center, Aug. 26. TUPAD is part of DOLE’s Integrated Livelihood and Emergency Employment Program. (JCM/CBA/PIA6-Negros Occidental)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
PRO-7 chief lauds Siquijor police's illegal drugs campaign Rizalie Anding Calibo SIQUIJOR, Sept. 13 (PIA) – Police Regional Office in Region (PRO-7) Director Chief Supt. Noli Taliño congratulated the Siquijor Police Provincial Office (SPPO) for its accomplishment in the implementation of Double-barrel Project Tokhang.
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he SPPO was able to visit 1,043 households with 690 “drug users” and 115 “drug pushers" who voluntarily appeared or a total of 805 drug personalities. “But the fight against illegal drugs and all forms of criminality cannot be done by the police alone,” said Taliño in his message during his first command visit to the province. He also citied the support of the private and the religious sectors including the local government units, Provincial Advisory Council (PAC), and barangay officials. He said illegal drugs is the "mother of all crimes", noting that 70% of the crime committed in the country were attributed to illegal drugs, one reason why the president is serious in this campaign. “The support is unprecedented,” Taliño said of those they got from the president, Philippine National Police (PNP) leadership and
the private sector. “Let us continue working hard, walang pinipili ang iligal na druga, lahat nabibiktima," he said. To date, Central Visayas recorded a total of more than 72,000 surrenderees with Cebu province having the highest number at around 32,000 followed by Bohol with more than 30,000. Siquijor province, he said, has the lowest number of drug personalities in the entire region who have surrendered since the start of the anti-illegal drugs campaign in July 1. This is also due to its number of population which is lower compared to its neighboring provinces, he added, as he noted that Siquijor remains one of the safest provinces in the country with low crime rate. Taliño’s visit also highlighted the awarding of at least 14 police officers for their
exemplary accomplishments in the campaign against illegal drug in the province. The Medalya ng Papuri was awarded to Police Officer 3 Eric Ponce, Police Officers 2 Cary Grant Grencio, Roberto Anulacion, Rena Gold Gumahad, and Jingle Omandam; Senior Police Officer 1 Alou Siangco, Police Officers 1 Julius Tampus, Bener Cordova and Artchie Sumalpong. The Medalya ng Kagalingan was also awarded to Police Officers 1 Joseph Baroro, Jesus Macasaol, PedritoVios Jr., and Janwel Calunsag. Taliño was assisted by Siquijor PNP Provincial Director Senior Superintendent Erson Digal in the awarding of the medals. A command conference was done after the awarding where issues and concerns in the implementation of programs on criminality and peace and order were tackled. (rmn/rac/ PIA7-Siquijor)
RPOC: ‘Do not pass unverified text on terror attacks’ Fayette C. Riñen CEBU, Sept. 6 (PIA) -- Bohol Governor Edgar Chatto urged the public not to pass text messages warning the community to refrain from visiting commercial malls due to possible suicide bombings in the wake of the Davao blast.
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We appeal to the public to help government counteract the disinformation by not passing the same text creating undue panic and chaos,” said Chatto who presided the recent emergency meeting of the Regional Peace and Order Council (RPOC-7). The meeting was called to discuss the current peace and order situation in the region following the Davao explosion at the Roxas Night Market last Friday night that killed at least 14 people and left over 60 injured. Chatto said we must heed the advisories
of the authorities rather than believe in the text that is being circulated around. The issue cropped up after Asteria Caberte, director of the Department of Trade and Industry -7 said that she received a text message about an intelligence report on four women from Basilan plotting to do suicide bombings in Cebu malls and to pass on the message. Chief Supt. Noli Taliño, regional director of the Police Regional Office (PRO-7), however, said there is no intelligence report about it and that the message needs to be verified.
“We should not immediately believe the information although all text warnings on terror threats would be verified,” said Taliño adding that however, the public should be extra cautious after the Davao tragedy. Chatto also requested the local government units to take part in normalizing the situation by asking the community to keep watch but not to spread fear and cause panic. “We need to stay vigilant, keep clam and report immediately to the proper authorities on suspicious activities or people within our area,” said Chatto. (rmn/fcr/PIA7)
NegOr police condemns bombing in Davao Jennifer C. Tilos DUMAGUETE CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) -- Negros Oriental Police Provincial Office (NORRPO) strongly condemns the bombing attack in Davao City recently causing fatalities, serious injuries, and damage to properties. We are sending our condemnation in The residents are also encouraged to and watchfulness of the people. the form of disseminating information support the endeavor in making the community Tiempo urged the public to report and intensified campaign against all aware of the threats posted by the lawless immediately the presence of any suspicious forms of criminality that undermines the elements of the society. looking persons and bags or backpacks that self-determination of our people and tranquility With this, the police office here has are left unattended in public places or public of the nation,” Acting Provincial Director intensified the drive by distributing conveyance and in any event where people PSSupt. Nestor Tiempo said. “Anti-Terrorism Flyers” and conduct dialogues wear excessive clothing. To heighten the campaign against or pulong-pulong focusing on bomb threats in NORPPO has tightened security terrorism, each police station in the the barangays. around the province with the active support province is required to conduct dialogue The dialogues also include other forms of the community to provide the public a among the different members of the of criminal acts believed to be the safe and secure place. (rmn/jct/PIA7-Negros community. appropriate move to enhance the vigilance Oriental)
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CENTRAL VISAYAS
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Plastic bottle project supports environment, education advocacies Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Sept. 8 (PIA) – The CARD Mutually Reinforcing Institution (CARD MRI) recently launched a ‘Plastic Bottle Drive Project’ to further advance its advocacy on poverty eradication by taking care of the environment and helping children’s education at the same time.
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Every day we produce different kinds of wastes that are harmful to the environment, including water bottles. In order to minimize its impact, we need to recycle these water bottles as it takes years to break down the materials in a plastic bottle,” said Mharra Sarmiento, community development special project officer of CARD MRI. The project aims to develop staff and clients’ care for their community, the environment, and the next generation. The cash collected from selling plastic bottles will be donated to support thousands of students in the country through the CARD MRI Zero Dropout Program. The Zero Dropout Program is part of the CARD MRI One Family, One Graduate Program, said Sarmiento.
It is an effort of CARD MRI to ensure one college graduate for every family it serves, leading to an enhanced economic situation for the whole family. Through the grants and donations given by CARD MRI’s supporters, the Zero Dropout Program was conceptualized in 2011. To date, the program has supported at least 250,000 children in their journey towards a better future. The program also has a website (www.cardmri.com/zerodropout) that can accommodate donations online. Sarmiento said this "requires potential donor to have an online bank account for fast and easy donation. If none, the donor can deposit through bank or directly contact the key person found
at the contact us page to discuss the donor’s most convenient way of contributing.” The minimum donation amount is P1,000.00 and the maximum of P50,000.00. Amount lower than the minimum and higher than the maximum are possible provided that the donor directly contacts the Resource Mobilization Unit through Deputy Director Pauline Landicho. Donors also have the options to include their names on the program’s site or not and to choose a preferred province to allot the donation. CARD is a group of Mutually Reinforcing Institutions with a common goal of eradicating poverty and improving the quality of lives of socially-economically challenged women and families towards nation building. (rmn/jct/ PIA7-Negros Oriental)
PIA, DOE organize confab on alternative fuels Jennifer C. Tilos NEGROS ORIENTAL, Sept. 8 (PIA) – The Department of Energy (DOE) Central Office in partnership with Philippine Information Agency (PIA)-Negros Oriental organized a Multi-Sectoral Forum on the use of cleaner alternative fuel and energy technologies on September 13 in Dumaguete City. ome 150 transport groups, local officials, program for public transport, and market Pushing for environmentally-friendly and schools in the province participated transformation through the introduction of initiatives, DOE’s innovation for green and in the event designed to create electric vehicles. energy efficient public transport will also greater awareness and appreciation on the The use of LPG as an alternative fuel highlight the forum with the electric tricycles importance of cleaner alternative energy fuels source in the transport sector addresses the dubbed as ‘e-trike project’. and energy technologies and efficient utilization air pollution by vehicular emission. Thus, the government aims to deploy of energy. Indigenous Malampaya natural gas 100,000 locally made E-Trikes in key cities and The forum focused on automatic liquefied supply energy as a clean alternative fuel for mun icip alities nation wide. (rmn /jct/ petroleum gas (LPG), natural gas vehicle transport. PIA7-Negros Oriental)
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DA-7 launches #BROWN4good Challenge Hazel F. Gloria CEBU CITY, Sept. 8 (PIA) – The Department of Agriculture (DA-7) recently launched the #BROWN4good Challenge in Cebu.
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uring the press conference, DA-7 Information Officer Cheryl dela Victoria said this campaign aims to help the country’s local farmers to link them with good establishments and retailers, and help them become entrepreneurs. “This is also in support of the Be Responsible advocacy campaign of DA through social media that aims to boost the economy and production of brown rice in the country,” continued dela Victoria. The event was attended by the information officers of various government agencies and media. Presidential Assistance for the Visayas Sec. Michael Dino with DA 7 Regional Technical Director Joel Elumba unveiled the “Mr. Brown
Rice" logo. Dela Victoria said that those wishing to join their challenge should post photos of meals with brown rice in all their social media accounts using the hashtags #BROWN4good #region7. Each hashtag is equivalent to 100 grams of brown rice. Dela Victoria said they aim to generate at least 50,000 hashtags to achieve their target of having 100 sacks of brown rice for the charities that will receive these sacks as donation. Dela Victoria also shared that DA is now negotiating with malls for an agreement to require their concessionaires to sell brown rice to the public.
Dir. Elumba said brown rice is more nutritious than the regular white rice. According to DA-7, brown rice has higher protein, fiber, vitamins, minerals and antioxidants compared with white rice. Brown rice could help achieve self-sufficiency because of the 10% higher milling recovery, Buying brown rice would mean supporting local farmers and helping them increase their income. For every hashtag, the department will feed one less Filipino with brown rice through charities. DA-7 officials encouraged the public to eat brown rice to be able to achieve the challenge and at the same time it is a healthy choice. (rmn/hfg/DA-7)
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EASTERN VISAYAS
584 complete ALS accreditation and equivalency test Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, NORTHERN SAMAR, Sept. 14 (PIA) – Some 584 elementary and secondary students and out-of-school youths graduated recently, the Alternative Learning System (ALS) accreditation and equivalency test at the University of Eastern Philippines Gymnatorium.
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r. Julito Lagrimas, education program supervisor said that the accreditation and equivalency test is a paper and pencil test designed to measure the competencies of those who have neither attended nor finished elementary and secondary education in the formal system of the Department of Education(DepEd). Lagrimas informed that school children ages, 17 and up are qualified to take the accreditation and
equivalency examination for high school level. Out of school youth or children aging 11 years old and up can take the examination for elementary level while 15 years and up are qualified for the high school level, he said. On the other hand, Board Member Fawa Batula of the second district of Northern Samar who was the guest speaker said that the graduation ceremony was one step ahead in fulfilling the completers’
dreams for a better and a brighter future. Further he said, everybody deserves a second chance and continue dreaming not only for oneself but for their love-ones. ALS is a free-education system given by the government which provides option for the dedicated students to finish their studies through non-formal and informal sources of knowledge and skills. (tbc-pianorthsamar)
LGU-SoLeyte plants 1,000 trees to mark CS month Erna Sy Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 13 (PIA) - The provincial government of Southern Leyte opted to plant trees to mark the Civil Service celebration month this year.
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s early as 5:00 o’clock in morning last September 9, some 200 provincial employees of the Southern Leyte provincial capitol started trekking to the highly elevated mountains of Barangay Laboon, Maasin City to plant more trees in its watershed area, Provincial Environment and Natural Resources Management Officer (PDRMO) Dr. Eva Abad reported.
PDRMO Abad noted that the location of the tree planting was strategically chosen in order to fortify the watershed area, one of the sources of water for Maasin City. The provincial government headed by Governor Damian Mercado, who is passionate in planting trees, have worked hard to make the environment of the province greener by planting
1,000 trees at the birthplace of President Rodrigo Duterte. One week earlier, Representative Roger Mercado of the lone district of Southern Leyte also planted 10,000 trees at the same barangay together with some 2,000 employees, students, provincial, municipal and barangay officials, national line agencies officers and employees to mark his 65th birthday celebration. (esg/PIA8 SoLeyte)
DOE presents no-gasoline/diesel mode of public transport PIA - 8 MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 13 (PIA) -- Motorbikes that run on electricity, automobiles and cars driven by liquefied petroleum gas (LPG, buses on long distance trips using natural gas.
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cenes straight from science fiction? Definitely not. These are realistic public utility vehicles roaming in some key cities around the country, shifting to alternative fuels. In a multi-sectoral forum organized by the Department of Energy (DOE) in close partnership with the Philippine Information Agency (PIA), four experts on clean energy took turns painting pictures of the future -- near or far -- in the transport industry without gasoline or diesel as the main source of fuel. The forum, which was held at the Maasin Country Lodge here Friday, was attended by more than 150 individuals coming from various sectors, among them transport operators and drivers, students, teachers, barangay officials, and representatives of local government units from the province’s 18 towns and one city. Two Mayors were present among the participants, Mayor Manuel Calapre of Saint Bernard, and Reynaldo Fernandez of Hinunangan, along with City Vice Mayor Maloney Samaco, as well as some Sangguniang Bayan Members who are chairpersons of the Committee on Environment, like City Councilor Vicencio Costillas, and some LGU-designated information officers. The provincial LGU was represented by
Sangguniang Panlalawigan Member Ailleen Estrera. City Vice Mayor Samaco set the tone of the discussion when he touched the subject on fossil fuels in the middle east which supply will eventually be exhausted, hence the need now for the government to explore other sources of energy. Lourdes Maria Capricho, division chief on alternative fuels and energy technologies division (AFTED) of the DOE, said the agency has been leading the way towards that end through its various services, in which the aspect on promoting unconventional power sources for transportation was a top priority. Arnel Matthew Garcia, DOE supervising research specialist on electronic tricycles (E-Trikes), shared the experience of Mandaluyong City in letting in e-trikes to ply its streets. He stressed the need for partnership among LGUs, government financing institutions (GFIs), and the DOE as a crucial factor in paving the way for a transformed transport market through the electric vehicles program. The topic handled by Roselle Ibuna, DOE senor science research specialist, came as a shocker, when she reported that LPG is not just confined for cooking in the kitchen but can also be used to run cars, as what is now happening in cities like
Cebu. In Batangas and other parts of Metro Manila, buses take the roads using natural gas pumped from oil fields like the Malampaya, said Daniel Collin Jornales, DOE science research specialist, adding that even methane can be processed for vehicle fuel. In the open forum, the reactions centered more on safety of passengers, as LPG is a combustible substance when not properly handled. Questions were also raised on the high cost of e-trikes, its introduction seen as a threat in the mainstream trikes as well as gasoline operators. The DOE personnel responded that they are closely teaming up with regulatory bodies like the Department of Trade and Industry (DTI) to come up with safety standards, procedures, and guidelines. Regarding the issue on expensive units, this can be solved through financing by LGUs and GFIs which redound to only P 300 per day re-payment for five years, the DOE personnel explained. And how about solar power for transport vehicles in addition to lighting homes? This will be the main concern of a follow-up forum, the DOE assured. (mmp/PIA8-Southern Leyte)
EASTERN VISAYAS
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Army, police intensify security Ninfa B Quirante CATBALOGAN CITY, Samar, Sept. 13 (PIA) — The 8th Infantry Division, Philippine Army, based in Catbalogan City is intensifying security patrols and checkpoints throughout Eastern Visayas.
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n an announcement, the army said that this is in line with the declaration of President Rodrigo Roa Duterte’s “State of National Emergency on Account of Lawless Violence.” Presently, the 8th Infantry Division and the Police Regional Office - 8 is currently conducting joint AFP-PNP security patrols, checkpoints to secure the people, vital facilities and infrastructures against the Abu Sayaff and other terrorist groups. Immediately after the President declared
the state of lawlessness, the army and the police held a coordinating conference headed by Maj Gen Jet B Velarmino AFP Commander, together with the PNP headed by Police Chief Superintendent Elmer C Beltejar, Acting Regional Director, PRO-8. In the said meeting with other law enforcement agencies, they agreed to strengthen security measures especially in public places such as bus terminals, airports, seaports, commercial centers and places of worship. Velarmino, it was reported, said that he will
deploy sufficient troops to augment the Philippine National Police in their foot and mobile visibility patrols, checkpoints and inspections. Troops and K9 bomb sniffing dogs will be augmented at the Philippine Coast Guard, at the Civil Aviation Authority of the Philippines/Air Transportation Office (CAAP,ATO) in all seaports and airports in the AOR. The general assured the people that they will continue do their mandate of protecting and serving the people of Eastern Visayas. (NBQ/ PIA8-Samar)
DSWD to distribute emergency shelter assistance in Catarman Teresita B. Cardenas CATARMAN, Northern Samar, Sept. 13 (PIA) – The Department of Social Welfare and Development (DSWD) through the Municipal Social Welfare an Development Office will soon distribute the Emergency Shelter Assistance (ESA) to the 15,119 family-victims of Typhoon Ruby in the 55 barangays of Catarman.
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rs. Ermina O. Delorino, municipal social welfare and development officer said ESA is a limited cash or material assistance for disaster-affected families with either partially or totally damaged houses located in safe areas to make it habitable. She said ESA is designed to assist in restoring the normal social functioning of the typhoon “Ruby” affected areas. She is appealing to the beneficiaries to patiently await as this assistance will be distributed in a month or two as payroll preparations is tedious. Delorino explained that due to funding limitation, Sangguniang Bayan of Catarman passed Resolution No. 2016-59-06 adopting the pro-rated
emergency shelter assistance with the new guidelines: owners of totally damaged houses, will receive P17,500 per household while those with partially damaged houses will will get P8,750.00 in cash. This is a revision of the previous P30,000 for totally damaged and P10,000 for partially damaged houses. DSWD Memorandum Circular No. 01 series of 2016 states that in case of budgetary limitation vis a vis total funding requirement, the LGU thru its Sangguniang Bayan shall issue and submit to the DSWD Field Office for approval, adopting a pro-rated assistance to accommodate the number of affected families with totally and partially damaged houses.
Delorino revealed that a cash for work shall also be provided as a support component for the families’ engagement in the house repairs as a form of temporary employment and source of income. For totally damaged houses a ten (10) days cash for work assistance at P195.00/day will be given, while a five day assistance will be granted for owners of partially damaged houses on top of the amount earlier mentioned, she added. The listing of ESA beneficiaries was based on the terminal report submitted to the DSWD regional office by the former officer-in -charge of the MSWDO Catarman, she stressed. (tbc-pianorthernsamar)
PRC inks MOAs with SoLeyte partners, stakeholders Erna Sy Gorne MAASIN CITY, Southern Leyte, Sept. 13 (PIA) - The Philippine Red Cross (PRC) – Southern Leyte chapter will heap abundance this year as more partners, stakeholders poured in support and financial assistance, as well, to enhance the services of the local humanitarian chapter.
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ccording to PRC–SoLeyte Chapter Administrator Jonas Maco, the local chapter expects the presence of Chairman Richard J. Gordon, the Secretary General and the Blood Services Manager of PRC National Headquarters, who confirmed to lead in the signing of varied Memorandum of Agreements (MOA) between partners and stakeholders for their commitments and financial support to the local chapter. Maco said the MOA signing with the provincial government of Southern Leyte for the turning over of Two Million pesos financial assistance for the PRC Southern Leyte this year.
Another signing for the establishment of Medical Health Care Assistance Program between the province thru the Salvacion Oppus Yniguez Memorial Provincial Hospital (SOYMPH) and the local PRC, where indigent patients admitted in the mentioned hospital are entitled to avail the free blood processing fees. Each blood bag will be made safe as it undergoes processing at P1,800 per bag, Maco said. MOA signing with the array of partners who commit to the “Dugo Mo, Kinabuhi Ko” program, hence the local chapter experienced an upsurge of blood collections since January 2016 when the program was launched.
The blood organizers and partners are encouraged to donate blood for the PRC local chapter, he added. With enough stocks of processed and safe blood at the local PRC blood bank, moves have it that these blood shall be distributed at the five other district hospitals across the province, he said. Also included is the MOA signing with the Department of Education for the Southern Leyte and Maasin City Divisions) who both actively participated for the establishment of Red Cross Youth and Volunteer Services in the different public schools throughout the province, he added. (esg/PIA SoLeyte)
One Visayas e-newsletter is published weekly by the Visayas Regional Cluster of the Philippine Information Agency (PIA) comprising Region 6, 7 and 8. Its main editorial office is located at PIA Region 6, Iloilo City. One Visayas e-newsletter is part of the online news and information dissemination services of PIA and is powered by www.issuu.com. For inquiries and suggestions, call Tel. Nos. (033) 3378719/3377301 or e-mail piaamo6@yahoo.com.
Ms. Minerva BC Newman Regional Director, PIA 7
Editorial Consultants Atty. Ma. Janet C. Mesa, Ph. D. Regional Director, PIA6
Ms. Alicia E. Nicart Regional Director, PIA8
Managing Editor Jaime S. Cabag, Jr. Contributors All PIA Information Officers of Regions 6, 7 & 8 Production and Layout Edson J. BaĂąares Lynnor C. Regalado
Regional Offices: PIA 6, 2/F RC Building, Rizal St., Iloilo City, Iloilo 5000, Tel. Nos. (033) 337-8719/3377301/509-0993, Fax No. (033) 337-8719/509-0993, e-mail: r6_pia@yahoo.com/ piaamo6@yahoo.com PIA 7, Room 304, 3/F Machay Bldg., Garardo Avenue, Cebu City, Cebu 6000, Telefax No. (032) 232-4062/232-4126, e-mail: pia7_cebu@yahoo.com.ph/r7_pia@yahoo.com PIA 8, Children’s Park Compound, Sen. Enage St., Tacloban City, Leyte 6500, Tel. No. (053) 325-5124, Telefax No. (053) 321-2029, e-mail: pia_ev@yahoo.com/r8_pia@yahoo.com